Here’s something no one really tells you before you go overseas: you’re not being signed as just a basketball player. You’re being brought in as the import. And that role means a lot more than putting the ball in the basket.
When a team signs an import, they’re investing in someone they believe can make a difference right away. You’re expected to lead on the floor, carry the offense when things get tight, and represent the club off the court. You’re often the player everyone looks to when the game is on the line — or when the season starts slipping away.
Even if no one says it out loud, you’re the one they expect to “save” the team.
In higher leagues, that pressure looks different. There, you might share the floor with other imports, so performance and efficiency matter most — they’ll judge you by your numbers and consistency. But in lower divisions, where you might be the only foreign player, the expectations expand. You’re expected to rebound, score, lead, and sometimes even coach — all at once.
This is what makes the overseas experience both challenging and rewarding. The expectations can feel heavy, but they also give you the chance to show professionalism, leadership, and resilience — traits that extend far beyond basketball.
Understanding your role as an import is key to surviving and thriving in overseas basketball. It’s not just about what you do on the court; it’s about how you carry yourself in every aspect of the job.
If you’re unsure what’s expected of you or how to handle the weight that comes with being “the import,” I can help. Through SJM Consulting, I mentor players at all levels to understand their roles, manage pressure, and perform when it matters most.
You’re more than just a player. You’re a professional.
Let’s Talk…